Mastermind of $18M Navy kickbacks gets 10 years

Nov. 1, 2013 - 06:00AM
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PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The mastermind of a 15-year kickback scheme that cost the Navy $18 million has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Ralph Mariano was sentenced Friday in federal court in Providence after pleading guilty in May to conspiracy, theft of government property and tax evasion charges.

U.S. District Judge Mary Lisi said Mariano's actions had a devastating impact on his family and those who lost their jobs because of the scheme.

Mariano apologized during the sentencing.

Mariano was a civilian at Naval Sea Systems Command in Washington when he was charged in 2011. He used his position to authorize payments to a Georgia-based contractor, which then give him and others kickbacks. Six people pleaded guilty in the case.

Prosecutors had recommended a sentence of 10 years and one month. Mariano's lawyer had sought less time.